Within the context of particle science, particle size analysis refers to determination of size, range and/or mean size of particles present. This analysis is crucial for research and commercial applications in a number of industries and a wide variety of applications. In the chemical industry, when powders form one or more of the reactants, precise constitution of the powder is vital to ensure consistency. In the construction industry, particularly road building, aggregates must be optimised for maximum strength and durability. Continue reading Particle Size Distribution Analysis – An Overview

In my last post I tried to give a sense of just how easy and convenient Beckman Coulter’s DelsaMax dynamic light scattering instruments are to use. Today I would like to add to that by describing – in very simple terms – what the user actually does to obtain particle size and zeta potential information from these analysers.Continue reading Just Press a Button

In some of my recent posts I have given brief details of the DelsaMax PRO and CORE dynamic light scattering instruments from Beckman Coulter. Among other things, I have been amazed by how quickly, accurately and reliably this series delivers its particle size and zeta potential analysis. I have also been impressed by the fact that it can do this with incredibly small samples and tiny particles. Today I’d like to talk about the other two items in the DelsaMax product line-up: DelsaMax ASSIST and the DelsaMax Analysis Software. Continue reading DelsaMax ASSIST and Analysis Software

The recent announcement of a whole new range of Beckman Coulter dynamic light scattering instruments was of major significance for those of us with a deep interest in nanoparticle research. After all, the existing Beckman Coulter range already had so much to offer. What would the new DelsaMax analysers have to add? Continue reading DelsaMax Website

The following article, based on application information available via the Beckman Coulter website, gives an example of how measurements of particle size and zeta potential may both be obtained using the same instrument. In this case the subject is fat globules in homogenised milk. Continue reading Studying Fat Globules in Milk

When reading about the principles underlying a particular analytical instrument or technique, I often come across concepts which are not fully explained but which the authors assume will be recognised by the reader. Sometimes it’s good to have a look at those concepts and make sure their significance is understood. One that I’d like to mention is Brownian motion, or Brownian movement. Continue reading Brownian Motion and Dynamic Light Scattering